Entry Level Engineer Jobs in Olympia, WA (NOW HIRING)

Salary : $76,545.00 - $102,967.00 Annually
Location : Clallam County - Port Angeles, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 26DOT-OR-30770
Department: Dept. of Transportation
Division: Olympic Region
Opening Date: 08/18/2026
Closing Date: 9/2/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
About WSDOT
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
WSDOT is currently seeking a Transportation Engineer 2 to join the Port Angeles Project Engineer Office, where you will support the delivery of highway construction projects that improve the safety, quality, and capacity of Washington's transportation system. In this role, you will serve as a designer, inspector, and/or project administrator, developing and reviewing designs and estimates, performing construction inspections, and managing project documentation and contract payments for Design-Bid-Build and Design-Build projects. You will exercise sound judgment while ensuring projects comply with WSDOT standards, contract specifications, and agency policies. This position may also provide guidance and training to entry-level engineers and technicians while contributing to a workplace that values respect, inclusion, and public stewardship.
What to Expect
This position requires working outdoors year-round in all weather conditions at active construction sites and working a varied schedule, including night work. Duties include traversing rough, steep, and uneven terrain; standing for extended periods; performing work at ground level; and lifting or carrying equipment weighing up to 35 pounds. The work also involves exposure to highway traffic, heavy equipment, noise, dust, chemicals, vehicle exhaust, bodies of water, and hot materials and equipment up to 350°F.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Transportation Engineer 2 will:

• Inspect highway construction projects to verify compliance with plans, specifications, contract requirements, and WSDOT standards while documenting field activities and maintaining project records.
• Develop engineering designs, plans, specifications, estimates, and technical documentation using CADD software and transportation engineering principles to support project delivery.
• Perform design and construction quality verification for Design-Build projects by conducting audits, reviewing submittals, monitoring compliance, and coordinating with project teams.
• Manage Requests for Information (RFIs), contractor submittals, design changes, and project closeout activities to ensure accurate documentation and timely project delivery.
• Prepare contractor progress estimates, change orders, financial reports, and contract documentation while tracking budgets, schedules, risks, and payment records.
• Monitor materials quality by performing verification testing, auditing quality programs, coordinating laboratory testing, and ensuring compliance with WSDOT and contract requirements.
• Coordinate with engineers, contractors, regulatory agencies, and internal stakeholders to resolve technical issues, communicate project information, and support successful project delivery.
• Promote a safe work environment by implementing safety plans, conducting field oversight, reporting incidents, and ensuring compliance with environmental and workplace safety requirements.

Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

• Foundational Engineering Knowledge: Demonstrated understanding of civil, structural, geotechnical, or transportation engineering principles, typically acquired through formal education or equivalent on-the-job experience. Demonstrated ability to apply technical civil engineering principles, practices, and methods to support design, construction, and project delivery activities to real-world scenarios.
• Technical Interpretation and Analysis: Skilled in reading, analyzing, and interpreting contract plans, specifications, manuals, and other WSDOT documents in accordance with project requirements and engineering standards. Ability to perform engineering-related calculations, review technical data, analyze quantities and costs, and verify the accuracy of computations related to construction and project delivery.
• Construction Inspection and Materials Testing: Ability to interpret and apply highway construction plans, specifications, and special provisions; observe and document contractor work; track submittals; and perform or support materials sampling and testing activities in accordance with industry standards and established procedures.
• Field Reporting, Documentation, & Records Management: Demonstrated skill in preparing and maintaining accurate and timely construction documentation, reviewing engineering calculations for accuracy and completeness, tracking quantities, completing daily field reports based on direct field observations and inspection activities, and supporting the preparation of final records and as-built documentation.
• Quality & Compliance Oversight: Demonstrated ability to evaluate workmanship, materials, and construction activities to ensure compliance with project specifications and engineering standards.
• Project and Design Support: Ability to support product development and delivery by assisting with design documentation, technical reports, special provisions, estimates, contract administration activities, and coordination with consultants and internal stakeholders.
• Technology Proficiency: Advanced skills in operating Windows-based computer systems and software, including MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, SharePoint, and Outlook).
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information effectively and professionally to a diverse audience, including those with non-technical backgrounds, virtually, telephonically, and in-person.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Demonstrated experience working productively in a team environment under tight deadlines and shifting priorities, producing accurate and consistent results.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

In addition to the above, the following are also required:

• Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to maneuver and transport various materials and/or equipment weighing up to 35 pounds.
• A valid driver's license and ability to operate state-owned vehicles for travel to and between project sites in support of field duties and essential job functions.
• Obtain certification as a Certified General Inspector within six (6) months of appointment and any additional Division certifications required for the position.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Construction & Contract Administration: Demonstrated ability to apply construction practices, contract administration processes, and Design-Build contracting methods to ensure project compliance and delivery.
• Engineering Software Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to use computer-aided engineering and design software to support engineering analysis, documentation, and decision-making.
• Project Management Exposure: Experience supporting or performing project management tasks such as organizing resources, tracking processes, and contributing to a successful project delivery, with specific experience utilizing Primavera P6.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• Regular in-person attendance is required, and overnight travel may be required.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• The salary range listed includes the 5% Group C Assignment Pay associated with this position.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance - We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals' lifestyle.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future - WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to for more information.

Check out this video to learn more:
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the "Work Experience" portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
• Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the "References" section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at . Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-30770 in the subject line.
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other ins